What challenges will the world face in 2018? When reflecting on an unpredictable past 12 months, it is difficult to say with certainty what might be around the corner. Who could have known that we would have responded to three disasters in the space of 12 months? Or indeed, that the world could have been on the brink of three famines at points in 2017?

UK aid has been a hot topic this year and it looks set to stay on the agenda as we enter 2018. As many debate the benefits of assisting developing countries overseas, here we provide some clarity about what aid is and why it is important.

We’re not saying you’ve got to give up 'The Grinch' or hang 'Home Alone' out to dry, but why not give some of these documentaries on humanitarian issues and current affairs a go, now you’ve got the time to put your feet up?

This time of year often makes us reflect back on the challenges of the previous 12 months, but it also encourages us to think about how fortunate we truly are and to be thankful for all that we have. For many people living in some of the toughest places on earth, help in 2017 came in the form of Concern Worldwide and was only made possible by your support.

Who really wants a partridge in a pear tree anyway?! Here's our own (and some may say, improved) version of '12 days of Christmas'. Give it a sing and see what you think! All things given by 'my true love' can be found on our gifts website.

This Christmas, as well as promoting our alternative gifts, we share an alternative recipe for mince pies. Taking ingredients from one of our programmes in Sierra Leone, where alarming levels of hunger are persisting, read on to find out how to make this traditional festive favourite with not so traditional fillings.

Burundi in East Africa is one of the world’s poorest countries. In the last two years a lack of resources has rocketed food prices causing a food security crisis. Many have also experienced a nutrition crisis where the poorest people are not getting the food they need to survive and sustain themselves.

Important links (Concern Worldwide)

Follow Concern Worldwide on:

Concern Worldwide (UK) is a Company Limited By Guarantee And Not Having A Share Capital (Registered in England and Wales with registered number 4323646) which has been granted Charitable Status by The Charity Commission for England and Wales (Registered Number 1092236) and The Office of The Scottish Charity Regulator (Registered Number SCO38107). The Registered Offices of Concern Worldwide (UK) are 13/14 Calico House, Plantation Wharf, London, SW11 3TN. Concern Worldwide (UK) is a subsidiary organisation of Concern Worldwide an Irish Registered Charity.